Dechert LLP is a leading adviser to hedge funds, with particular strength in credit strategies, regularly advising on fund launches, regulatory matters, and seed investments. The firm handles cross-border structuring and has offices in Luxembourg and Dublin, both major European fund domiciliation centres. Gus Black leads the hedge fund team. Abigail Bell has a broad practice focused on hedge and hybrid fund structures. Craig Borthwick acts for institutional clients on high-value hedge fund mandates and launches. Mikhaelle Schiappacasse advises both first-time and established managers on fund formation matters. Dona Treska supports clients with hedge fund platforms across major fund jurisdictions and is particularly active in launch and formation work.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Dechert LLP consistently demonstrates exceptional legal acumen and strategic judgment across complex matters. Their depth of expertise and client-focused approach make them a standout legal partner.'
- 'Working with Dechert has been a pleasure; their legal intelligence, clarity of thought, and proactive counsel make them an invaluable resource. To put it more plainly, I never have to worry about standard matters.'
- 'Dechert is able to support all of our business needs, from a management company perspective (LLP Agreements, employment) to fund formation. The knowledge of the teams is exceptional, and the team ensures that it understands the business strategy and goals to ensure that solutions are practical and a best fit.'
- 'Craig Borthwick is an extremely knowledgeable and commercial lawyer. Number one in his profession, the go-to for all things funds and regulation. Craig McDermaid and Donna Treska are also tireless and excellent.'
- 'Dechert has provided incredibly valuable advice on deal structuring between the GP and its Seeder. Also, the team has provided excellent advice regarding our expansion strategy in Asia. Finally, the team has conducted several high-profile negotiations with SWF and Institutional Investors who wanted to invest through SMAs.'
- 'Big picture view and extensive experience in similar deals, enabling one to make very precise observations which go beyond the usual legal advice, but are based on the firm's knowledge of specific clients’ willingness to accept a particular clause.'
Key clients
- Adelio Partners
- ADF Asset Management LLP
- All Africa Partners LLP
- Almace Asset Management LLP
- Amundsen Investment Management
- ARP Global Capital
- Aster Capital Management Limited
- Ayres Investment Management LLP
- Bayforest Capital Limited
- BlueBell Partners Limited
- BlueCove Limited
- Cheyne Capital Management (UK) LLP
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Gus Black
Other key lawyers
Abigail Bell; Craig Borthwick, Mikhaelle Schiappacasse; Dona Treska